Stand on AFSPA based on logic: Omar

Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday night said his view on phased withdrawal of AFSPA from parts of the state is based on logic and not emotion.

"I do not want to get into extended public debate on this (revocation of AFSPA issue). My point of view is based on logic, not emotions", Omar told reporters while inaugurating of Data Recovery Center at Gladni Power Station in Jammu.

"I know a lot of people are arguing against the phased withdrawal of AFSPA from emotional point of view. I am not arguing emotionally. I am arguing logically", Omar said adding "obviously when organisations like NHRC feels the same, it does add further weight to my argument".

He was replying to the question posed by a journalist about his reaction to NHRC's statement that there is no rationale for continuing AFSPA as the country is not facing any internal threat or conflict and if it backs his point of view on revocation of AFSPA.

Omar said "at times, I am accused of using issues like this (revocation of AFSPA) to divert attention. When NHRC says it, obviously they have no reasons to divert the attention". "So, I believe it is the point of view that needs to be considered", Omar said.

Replying to another question about amendments in Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), the Chief Minister said "I never said this.

We talk to you in an informal way - you make it news. I will never talk to you in an informal way".

Omar said "I had said this suggestion has come from some sector and we are thinking on the suggestion. I never said there is a decision like this".

"When you put informal things into formal shape, you become the reason for our anxiety", he said adding "our responsibility is whenever proposals comes before us, we consider them and after considering, it becomes our responsibility to accept or reject them".

"Yes, this type of proposal has come to us that RPC should be made at par with CrPC. But there is no decision on it", he said.

In reply to another question about Union Minister and his father Farooq Abdullah's statement that the situation in Kashmir has become normal so cinema halls and liquor shops should be reopened, the Chief Minister said, "I have not heard these type of statements from Dr Farooq Abdullah. If you have a question, it would be better to ask Dr Abdullah".